Congratulations. Yes, cruise culture is alive and well. Watch out for the cheerleaders, they don't take kindly to anyone dissing their line. :-)
You have lots of time to research and learn as much as you can. Half Moon Cay is a beautiful private island. We have always enjoyed our visits there.
Depending on how active you want to be, we found Olivia's (and the ship's) activities lacking in diversity. I think your friends must have been on the Zandaam if they went to Mexico. Your ship should be a little bigger, so it won't feel like you're seeing the same 20 people the entire time. :D
Also, we felt the Olivia experience a little culty with the catchphrases that people parrot back to the gals doing announcements and the Olivia song you're expected to sing before every night's entertainment/show. Overall, we liked the HAL experience though. I would sail with them again, but my partner and I probably would not choose to do another Olivia cruise, but maybe an all-inclusive resort just for comparison. I hope you have a great time!
Congratulations. Yes, cruise culture is alive and well. Watch out for the cheerleaders, they don't take kindly to anyone dissing their line. :-) You have lots of time to research and learn as much as you can. Half Moon Cay is a beautiful private island. We have always enjoyed our visits there.
You are going to love this cruise! That's a great itinerary and the ship/crew is great!
You'll have a great time! Research and book your shore excursions early. Some of them fill up quick!
Depending on how active you want to be, we found Olivia's (and the ship's) activities lacking in diversity. I think your friends must have been on the Zandaam if they went to Mexico. Your ship should be a little bigger, so it won't feel like you're seeing the same 20 people the entire time. :D Also, we felt the Olivia experience a little culty with the catchphrases that people parrot back to the gals doing announcements and the Olivia song you're expected to sing before every night's entertainment/show. Overall, we liked the HAL experience though. I would sail with them again, but my partner and I probably would not choose to do another Olivia cruise, but maybe an all-inclusive resort just for comparison. I hope you have a great time!
HAL is great!!